The Beautiful Struggle: Adapted for Young Adults

by Ta-Nehisi Coates

Step into a powerful tale of resilience and identity with The Beautiful Struggle (Adapted for Young Adults) by Ta-Nehisi Coates, the #1 New York Times bestselling author renowned for The Water Dancer and Between the World and Me.

This adaptation brings a gripping father-son journey to a new generation of readers.

In this young adult adaptation of his acclaimed memoir, Coates recounts his formative years in 1980s Baltimore under the watchful eye of his father, Paul Coates—a Vietnam veteran and former Black Panther committed to nurturing pride in African heritage. While Paul’s disciplined, tough-love approach challenges young Ta-Nehisi, his mother’s gentle guidance and the contrasting path of his brother “Big Bill” paint a vivid portrait of family dynamics.

Through candid reflections on school struggles, first crushes, and the search for self in a racially charged environment, The Beautiful Struggle explores themes of identity, brotherhood, and the courage to define one’s own path.

Features:

• Themes: Father-son bond, racial identity, coming-of-age
• Genre: Young Adult Memoir, Biography
• Reading Level: Ages 12+; accessible prose with thought-provoking depth
• Unique Selling Points: Adaptation by a bestselling author, real-life cultural context, relatable teen perspective
• Bonuses: Classroom discussion questions and writing prompts

Praise:

• “A stirring portrait of empowerment and family love.” — School Library Journal
• “Essential reading for teens exploring identity and heritage.” — Kirkus Reviews

About the Author:

Ta-Nehisi Coates is a National Book Award finalist and MacArthur Fellow celebrated for his work on race, history, and culture in modern America. His bestselling titles include Between the World and Me and The Water Dancer.

Related Reads:

• Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates
• March by John Lewis & Andrew Aydin
• Stamped by Jason Reynolds & Ibram X. Kendi

Empower young minds with The Beautiful Struggle (Adapted for Young Adults) by Ta-Nehisi Coates—an inspiring memoir adaptation that celebrates family, identity, and the strength to forge your own destiny.